Have you noticed? There’s a real lively vibe in the city these days. I can feel it, just biking around. I can hear it in the voices of people I interview for the magazine. Our story on cranes and our How We Live feature on the Warren at York luxury rental building reflect thriving development—a sure sign of a thriving town.

We also focused on Liberty Harbor in our “Hoods” department. Talk about change! That area has gone from a charming but humble waterfront community to a razzle dazzle new neighborhood with a name to match: Liberty Harbor Development District.

And all those new residents living in the new high rises? No need for them to go back across the river to dine. Zagat has touted Jersey City’s “culinary revolution,” and a bunch of A-list places have opened, along with our already stellar roster of fine restaurants. I couldn’t be the only one who has friends in downtown Manhattan who are coming over here for a great dining experience. Read all about it in Lauren Barbagallo’s story, “Foodie Heaven.”

A story about Grigory Gurevich is long overdue. He has been doing wonderful things for the JC art scene since the late ‘70s. Check out his work in the “Studio” section.

I know it’s summer, but we all know what happens at the end of the summer season: the onslaught of back-to-school articles, ads, and hoopla.

Our contribution to this media blitz is a fun one. Adriana Rambay Fernández interviewed kids and parents on trends in kids’ stuff for the new school year: Shoes, socks, you name it, along with some items that might surprise you.

But let’s not rush it. As you read this, we will be headed into the dog days of summer. Not sure what that means exactly, but I do know that summer in the city is a good thing. In our events calendar, you’ll find festivals, farmers’ markets, concerts, and all manner of outdoor fun.